Two of the NFL’s 13 play-calling head coaches meet Sunday when New Orleans’ Sean Payton (offense) faces the Broncos’ Vic Fangio (defense). The Saints’ offense, minus receiver Michael Thomas for six games and now without quarterback Drew Brees, ranks 12th in yards per game (373.6) and fifth in scoring (29.5). The Broncos’ defense, minus their entire Week 1 starting defensive line and outside linebacker Von Miller, is 13th in yards allowed (346.3) and 21st in scoring (21.6). Payton and Fangio have a mutual admiration even though they haven’t coached on the same staff and haven’t met head-to-head that often. Related Articles Broncos scouting report: How Denver matches up against Saints and predictions For Broncos safety Alijah Holder, another year means another learning curve Broncos Journal: Drew Lock going long to Jerry Jeudy remains work-in-progress Broncos cancel practice after one player, two staff members test positive for COVID-19 Malik Reed is developing into Broncos’ most effective pass rusher “He always presents challenges with his base defensive package and his sub-package,” Payton said.